1976 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2012 Chevrolet Cruze
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1976 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze (138 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1976 Ford Thunderbird. (135 HP @ 3400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze should accelerate faster than 1976 Ford Thunderbird.
Because 1976 Ford Thunderbird is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1976 Ford Thunderbird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1976 Ford Thunderbird (317 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Chevrolet Cruze. (167 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1976 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Chevrolet Cruze. 1976 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 2012 Chevrolet Cruze has manual transmission. 2012 Chevrolet Cruze will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1976 Ford Thunderbird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Ford Thunderbird | 2012 Chevrolet Cruze | |
| Make | Ford | Chevrolet |
| Model | Thunderbird | Cruze |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4942 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3400 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 317 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 4597 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1788 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1476 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2685 mm |
